Set jetting: Chicago’s favourite foodie locations from hit TV show The Bear

Chicago’s foodie scene is once again at the forefront thanks to the hotly anticipated season two of The Bear recently premiering in the UK. Restaurants in Chicago are widely acclaimed as among the very best in the USA and visitors can explore a range of different cuisines across its 77 diverse neighbourhoods – everything from Michelin-starred fine dining rooms to numerous foodie stalls and hole in the wall gems.

With many restaurants and dishes featuring in The Bear, we’ve put together the most iconic locations from the series and our favourite must-visit places for those who want to set-jet around this impressive city. 

Mr Beef 

As the inspiration behind The Original Beef of Chicagoland, Mr Beef, which features in both seasons of The Bear, should be a stop off for foodies and set jetters. This no-frills sandwich shop in River North serves up signature Chicago-style beef sandwiches and has been perfecting the art since 1963. Visitors can head to Mr Beef to see the show’s most frequented filming location, and enjoy a delicious sandwich consisting of thinly sliced Italian beef, sweet and spicy bell peppers and a garlicky jus, surrounded by locals and tourists alike.

Avec

The Mediterranean meets the Midwest at this West Loop hotspot, which is arguably one of the best restaurants in Chicago. Originally starting out as a wine bar, Avec remains true to its roots as a wine focused restaurant and pairs a rustic Mediterranean menu, inspired by the sunny regions of Southern Europe. Featuring ingredients from valued local producers that have been transformed into Mediterranean fare by talented chef de cuisine Dylan Patel, visit Avec with friends for the ultimate sharing experience for brunch, lunch or dinner.

Kasama 

Visitors can expect a queue outside Kasama with those desperate to try its tasty offerings. By day, Kasama is a bakery serving up delicious pastries and breakfast sandwiches, while by night this location is transformed into a modern Filipino restaurant from chefs Genie Kwon and Timothy Flores, with this fine dining establishment winning a Michelin star.

Top tip: Hopeful diners should be sure to get there early to try the menu, as this location is popular. 

SuperDawg 

Eagle-eyed viewers will have spotted the characters enjoying a classic Chicago style hotdog from none other than SuperDawg Drive In. Celebrating its 75th anniversary of selling pure beef Chicago style hotdogs to its patrons this year, this family-owned institution serves up unique crinkle cut fries, super thick shakes and Chicago style hot dogs right to the car window for an authentic Americana drive-in experience. Situated just outside the city, this local hot spot is definitely worth the drive. 

Pequod’s 

Chicago-style pizza is a must for anyone visiting this city, and Pequod’s is one of many tasty deep dish pizza joints around Chicago. Thanks to plenty of mozzarella, this restaurant is famous for its caramelised crust, and the flavourful pies have been a favourite with locals for generations. A well known spot for late night pizza jaunts, gather together in a large group and split a filling pie that’s bursting with toppings and cheesy sauce for an authentic Chicago-style experience. 

Pizza Lobo 

With thin crust pizzas to rival the classic Chicago deep dish, Pizza Lobo offers a range of delicious and imaginative toppings. Visitors can either choose to sit in and enjoy an entire pizza, or pick up a slice or two from the walk-up window for on-the-go pizza lovers. With locations in Logan Square and Andersonville, Pizza Lobo should be added to any foodie’s list.

Margie’s Candies 

Known far and wide for its delicious sweet treats, Margie’s Candies is an old-fashioned ice cream parlour that has been serving up its homemade shakes, sundaes and hand-dipped candies for the past 90 years. This unique Logan Square staple is the ideal spot for a decadent sugar hit and a sit down after a day of exploring the city. 

For more information on restaurants in Chicago, please visit choosechicago.com

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